Charles River Bike Path from Watertown?

[Sharon1958]

Hi,
This weekend, I would like to ride the Charles River Bike Path, which I understand is accessible from Watertown Square.

Is there somewhere there that I can park my car?

Thanks.

[C.P.]

I used to live right off of Charles River Road in watertown.
Since I moved, a bike lane has been installed on that road (both directions) and I'm also pretty sure there is still legal street parking (no meters) on the river side of the street toward the watertown square end of charles river road.
If you're headed there sat or sun, you should find a parking spot, but parking is tough on the 4rth from boater traffic, (Watertown Yatch Club at corner of North Beacon and Charles river road).

*LINK* Map of charles River Road Area (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=charles+river+rd,+watertown,+ma&spn=0.01364 7,0.018469&hl=en)

You could also try parking on the opposite side of the charles river off of Nonantum Road at the MDC boat launch/skating rink parking lot. It is a very busy lot this holiday weekend, many boat launchers heading in early to set up for Boston Fireworks, so this is less attractive.

BTW, if your ever thinking of seeing the 4rth fireworks in Boston, one of the BEST ways to do it is by parking near watertown square (good access to MAss Pike) and Bicycling alongside the river on the Bicycle Trail (http://www.mass.gov/mdc/images/BikePaths_dudley.gif). We'd usually end up in on the cambridge side to see them. Riding back is a snap, and fun. I've done it many many times.

There's also a newer (couple years at most) bicycle trail that starts at Watertown Square, and continues toward Waltham. I dont know how far it goes, but the last time I rode it, it was nice, as it goes by an MDC swimming Pool (take a quick swim there).

[Prefect]

I used to live right around the corner from that swimming pool in Waltham, if it's the pool right across the street from the huge, weird looking church anyway (corner of Newton and River St). The trail continues up to Moody Street, crosses over, and runs alongside the river for a bit. It pops out by Nova Biomedical on Prospect Street. I don't think it goes further than that, but I'm not positive.

[Sharon1958]

Thanks for this info - it's just what I needed!